Wednesday, December 30, 2009

I have just spent all day trying to install a router so I can use my new laptop in the wireless mode. When I purchased the router, I asked if there were any tricks to installing it. The computer guy said no, it's simple, any body can do it, just put the disk in and be sure to follow every step. Which I did, but the disk contained the most sorry written instructions that I've ever seen. Now keep in mind, that I spent 20 years developing, documenting, and writing instructions for the set up and operation of technical machinery and equipment systems. The info on the disk assumes that the person installing the router is a whole lot more computer literate than I am. Got the router installed, but lost all ability to connect to the Internet. Reinstalled the router, still no Internet! This is probably good since the new laptop has WINDOWS 7, which is not compatible to the WINDOWS ONE CARE Security that I have installed on the desktop. Uninstalled everything, and now my desktop takes way too long to connect to the Internet.

Tomorrow morning I'll check with the local daycare center, for a four year old to give me a hand.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Under the Christmas tree I found this new laptop. It's a TOSHIBA Satellite L505This was a present from my wife. It's going to be a while for me to learn how to do the same things that I have been doing on my old PC. All new stuff. And of course we all know how old folks like change...Hee Hee! But with my son-in-law and daughter's help I'll "getter done".But before doing anything, I need a cookie.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Before things get even more hectic, and I forget, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all. To the Followers of this Blog a special thanks for your continued interest. I also must, at this time, make a pledge for next year. That pledge being to be more responsive to comments left here. In the hub-bub of activity I some times (well lots of times) forget to reply to comments. Not that all comments require another comment as a reply. But, I promise to be more attentive.And if I am not, I'll continue to "play the old and forgetful card".

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

It's dark outside now. It's 7PM. The kids down the street just finished up caroling on our front porch. Two girls and one boy. The girls were about 12 and 14, and the boy is 5. The little boy, Colin carried a lantern, and they sang several Christmas carols. They were great! They sounded great! And we felt great too. And they all three sang to. We asked where the older brother was. Mason is 9, and his little brother said. "he chickened out".

They all stood there on the porch, beside our lighted outside tree holding up sheets of music, just like in the old time pictures on Christmas cards, and sang their hearts out.......even little Colin, and he can't read.

Friday, December 18, 2009

This first note is the note that Gnomey left for the Flower girls (Zinnia and Dahlia), telling them that he was going to Florida, and would be gone for Christmas. Just about when I thought that the Gnome adventure was over, it has taken a twist. Upon reading this note, Dahlia (the younger sister) broke into tears. Actually her mom described it as sobbing. Dahlia did not want Gnomey to leave. Now to be honest, I have felt that the girls had figured things out, and didn't believe anymore. I do think that Zinnia doesn't, but still wants to. Anyway, she spent some time consoling her little sister, and told her that Gnomey would be back.

This is the note that the girls left for Gnomey. Zinnia wrote the note as Dahlia told her what to say.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Here's a little different Santa I guess you'd say. Maybe a few days before or after Christmas. But still a Santa. Gene Messer, from Texas carved this fellow. This carving is 6 inches tall including the stump Santa is standing on. Gene kinda specializes in Flat Plane carving, and he's one of the best there is now; as you can see.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

This carved Santa is a pin, and was carved by another excellent wood carver. Jim O'Harra carved this Santa and I acquired it as a study in carving eyes. This pin is 2 1/2 inches high. I think that the eyes on a carving separates the top carvers from the rest of us.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

As Christmas approaches, and the year is about to end, I'll take this opportunity to share some great wood carvings with you all. This Santa is 5 inch hand carved tree ornament. This super carving is a gift from Mark Akers of South Carolina. Mark is an award winning wood carver, who as you can see carves an absolutely wonderful Santa. Mark also carves Santa in various different poses. As nice as this Santa looks in photo, you cannot believe how nice it is in hand. I had the opportuntiy to meet Mark and his wife at the Dayton wood carving show this year.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Another Noah's Ark ready for pick up. The buyer called and said she would be in the area, so she would pick up this Ark that is a Christmas present for her girls. She said I should have the Ark and animals in a box, because she'd have the girls with her. This one is 22 inches long, and unlike the previous one, has painted animals. Two more to go!

Friday, December 11, 2009

This is a Noah's Ark that I made a while back. Just had to make another and deliver it. Thought I'd just post this older photo, since it's nearly the same as the one just completed. This Ark is24 inches long. I hope I'll make some little boy happy....

Monday, December 7, 2009

Just too much on all of our plates at this time of year. Gnomey's bailin out to warmer climes. I wish I could too. This is the note that will be left for the Flower girls. Now I gotta find some appropriate Christmas gifts that Gnomey can give to the girls. Some how I don't think gift cards would cut it.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Here's an update on the Noah's Ark commission. Earlier I posted a rough layout of the Ark, and asked for suggestions as to whether to paint the animals or finish them with stains. I took the advice of those of you who answered my plea. No paint, but some way to show the spots and stripes. This Ark piece is 76 inches wide, and is designed to be placed over a set of double doors in a family room. The Ark itself must be finished, and the animals will receive various shades of stain. And the Giraffes must get their spots. The mountains and hills in the background have been stained, but need their final coat of finish.

It happens every year! Christmas is on the 25th of December. Each year I swear I'll not get bogged down with stuff to finish by Christmas. But each year I do get bogged down. I think it's because of the new math and the way it causes the number of days between Thanksgiving and Christmas to be less and less as each year goes by. At least it seems that way.

About Me

Retired male. Next birthday will be 78. Spend most of my time carving and quilting. Retired early (51) from a major university; so I am gettin this retirement thing down real good. I talked myself into wood carving. My daughter talked me into making quilts.